When you shop, you want it to go well. You want to find the pieces you need and you want them to be within budget. You need your trip to be quick, painless and fruitful. That means you also have to read this article in full, take notes and pay attention to its tips.
Before purchasing a piece of furniture, always open drawers and doors. You should not purchase a piece of furniture if the drawers do not open all the way and close evenly. Make sure the doors stay open and close properly. You should also check the knobs or handles to make sure they are properly attached.
If you are shopping for a new piece of furniture in order to replace an older one, keep the old one in mind. What did you like about your old piece? What didn’t you like that needs improved upon? Don’t just buy the most visually appealing potential replacement you see. If it isn’t comfortable for you personally, you aren’t going to be happy.
Avoid furniture with plastic or metal legs. These pieces of furniture are usually cheaper but they can actually damage your floors. If you leave a piece of plastic or metal furniture in the same spot for too long, it will probably leave a dark spot on your floor as well as a dent.
Check out the frame of any sofa you are considering. The board needs to be more than 1 inch thick. Your sofa can squeak if its board is thinner than that. Sit on and more around on any sofa you are considering purchasing.
Do not let a salesperson convince you to buy a piece of furniture you are not comfortable with. As most sales people do, those who sell furniture want to make the most commission, so they will try to convince you to purchase the most expensive item. Chances are, some cheaper items are better for your needs.
If you need furniture and want to save money, consider shopping at warehouse stores. Most of these stores do charge a membership fee; however, the money you will save will pay for the fee over and over again. These stores carry quality furniture at a fraction of the price of a furniture store.
Prior to heading out to the store, think through what you need. Write down the items you have to buy and which room they are going to be in. Also make note if you think any colors or patterns would be nice. The list can help save you a lot of time and money once you actually get to the store.
When buying furniture, always try to haggle with the salesperson. While haggling is not generally accepted in most retail industries, the furniture industry is an exception. There is usually a pretty steep markup associated with the furniture price and you can grab a great bargain if you try to haggle.
When buying furniture with drawers or latches, make sure they work smoothly and properly. Check over the piece of furniture just like you would a car. Make sure the drawers open without resistance, and that the latches catch and release easily. Also check that the drawers fit flush against the furniture when closed.
When it comes to furniture buying, certain holidays result in lower prices. Consider doing your furniture shopping on Veterans Day or Memorial Day. You should try buying around Christmas or the Fourth of July. Prices are usually marked down, possibly 75% off, with fabulous financing options.
When you are shopping for a mattress, ask the sales rep to see if you can test it for 30 days at no risk. The only way that you can really tell if an expensive mattress is right for you is by sleeping on it. Just keep the the plastic covering on the mattress to preserve its cleanliness.
If it’s hard to buy something perfect, think about a used piece that you can re-cover or refinish. This opens up your options and offers many style periods to choose from. Also, used pieces tend to be less expensive; and, since you will be refurbishing it, you can choose any fabric or finish you desire.
Kit furniture is always a good deal. Furniture that is not assembled costs less since there is no work that has to be done by the company. Usually it is easy to assemble, but you can get help if you need it.
Look at used furniture from all angles prior to a purchase. What looks good from outside, can be pretty bad on further inspection. Flip the furniture over. Look at the joints. Judge the condition of the fabric, wood, and metals used. As used furniture is often an “as-is” purchase, it’s up to you to do the work up front on your buy.
Consider your local scratch and dent store for your next furniture purchase. These stores often have brand new pieces with minor cosmetic damage. They sell the pieces at a large discount, and that can mean more money left in your pocket. These stores will also often barter or prices, making them an even better deal.
Now you have the arsenal of weapons you need to shop smarter. You know what it takes to buy furniture the right way. That means shopping will no longer be a dreaded treachery for you. On top of that, your home will begin to look more amazing with each furnishing you add.
